Editor’s note: For decades, University of Alabama professors have made predictions about what the New Year will hold. Among their topics this year are changes that will come with the new administration beginning in January, to fashion.

Colors will be brighter this year, predicts Brian Taylor, instructor in the Clothing, Textiles, & Interior Design program at the University of Alabama. Think the 1980s.

Each year, UA professors present “educated guesses” for the New Year.

“Pink consistently appeared on multiple runways throughout the spring 2017 fashion month,” Taylor said. “This included a broad range of pinks, from pale to heavily saturated to neon. I think designers showed this color as a reaction to what’s been happening in politics, world affairs, etc. – it gives consumers a way to have fun with what they are wearing – a way to distract from negatives in life.”

Will the preppy pink and green combos of the 1980s be back?

“I’m sure that combo will be popular,” Taylor said. “Pantone, a professional color authority for several industries, chose “greenery” as their color of the year.”

While silhouettes are becoming looser, and more focus is on the shoulder, puffy sleeves will be back. But shoulder pads won’t be as pronounced as in the 80s, Taylor said.

“Think Armani suits in the 80s,” he said. “Shoulders will be emphasized more than before, but it’s up to the consumer how they want to interpret this trend. It’s not a ‘costumey’ or exact replica of the 1980s, just a subtle nod to that era and shifting the eye up. “

It’s all a sein in the fashion pendulum, Taylor said.

“ For the past several years it’s been tighter, more structured silhouettes – skinny suits and skinny jeans, etc.,” he said. “It’s only a matter of time when the pendulum begins to shift the other direction. Designers guess what consumers will want in the future. It’s inevitable that the silhouette will start going in the other direction. Pajama dressing has become popular, athleisure wear, etc.

It’s up to the consumer if they want to incorporate any of these trends.”